Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature cookbook recipe:

Simple Chicken Tacos from the New Sonoma Diet Cookbook.

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.

Directly from The Fish House in Stanley Park Press Release:

Cooking classes with Karen Barnaby

February classes are all about Asian Fusion!

Saturday, Feb 19: noon to 2:30 pm

Thursday, Feb 24: 6 pm to 8:30pm

“I love Japanese foods, especially when they’re skillfully combined with Western ingredients. Getting a series of small plates, each with a few exquisite bites keeps your taste buds wanting more. This modern style of Japanese cooking is the inspiration for this menu which gives you the best of both worlds”. Karen Barnaby

These classes include a full meal paired with a welcoming cocktail and wine, the recipes, and various tips on cooking and presentation. Bring your appetite and lots of questions!

Ginger Prawn Salad with Sesame Dressing

Korean Style Tuna Tataki

Beef Tenderloin Rolls with Enoki Mushrooms & Cheese

Miso Glazed Sablefish with Asian Waldorf Salad

Avocado & Blue Cheese Sunomono

Honey Roasted Pears with Pine Nuts

$70 per person (HST and grat not included)

For reservations and your credit card payment, please call 604-681-7275 Monday-Friday, between 9am and 5pm

Directly from the Tea Association Press Release:

This Valentines think Afternoon Tea for Two

January 26, 2011 - Vancouver, BC - Maybe it’s the ritual. The slower pace that a cup of tea brings to the moment. Perhaps a sense of graciousness with an offer to pour for your guest or the hint of romance at the touch of a hand…even the tough new drinking and driving rules…but “Afternoon Tea”, says Tom and Karinna James of The Urban Tea Merchant, “is seeing a renaissance among couples.

This Valentine’s Day, and the weekend that surrounds it, three of the city’s top Afternoon Tea locations will be serving a special tea for Valentines. Available through the lunch hour, afternoon and into the early evening in some locations, the Valentine’s Tea Service offers guests a time for romance and a pleasant alternative to dinner in a busy restaurant. (Valentines is the busiest night of the year for restaurants)

Though most establishments feature a wine and champagne list, the Afternoon Tea is a celebratory ritual that has little expectation of alcohol, making it a perfect experience for those who don’t wish to include alcohol as part of their celebration.

At The Urban Tea Merchant (West Vancouver and Downtown) Tom James has seen an increase in other celebratory affairs over Afternoon Tea. Wedding and baby showers, Mother’s Day and even corporate groups, but what he is most excited about is the amount of couples celebrating with tea. “Husbands and wives tell us it’s a perfect place to meet in the middle of their day for some together time”,  and with Valentines falling on a weekday they expect to see many a corporate power couple in the Salon de Thé for The Urban Tea Merchant’s Sweetheart Valentine’s Tea.

Louise Roberge, President of the Tea Association, who will be in town next week to look in on the Tea Sommelier program at VCC and attend the Victoria Tea Festival (Feb 12-13) agrees, “In British Columbia”, she tells us, ”the popularity of tea is so high that Victoria hosts a major tea festival. It’s the only tea show in Canada for the consumer and open to the public. And, she notes, tea is taken seriously in BC with many of the restaurants and tea establishments anxious to hire the graduates of the Tea Sommelier Program at Vancouver Community College. VCC is only the second college in Canada to offer the program; George Brown College in Ontario included it in their curriculum three years ago.

Afternoon Tea is available at a number of locations in the lower Mainland. Here are three that offer excellent classic, French, unique and very romantic Afternoon Teas this Valentines. Reservations are recommended.

The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 West Lounge

Special Valentine’s Tea February 12th through 14th

2pm – 4:30pm $36 per person

The Fairmont Classic Afternoon Tea

Served daily, 2 pm to 4:30 pm $36 per person

900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver 604-684-3131

http://www.fairmont.com/hotelvancouver/GuestServices/Restaurants/900WestLounge.htm

Provence Restaurants

Le Grand Thé

Monday through Saturday 2:30 to 4:30 pm

$20 per person

Provence Mediterranean Grill

4473 West 10th Avenue
604-222-1980

Provence Marinaside

1177 Marinaside Crescent
604-681-4144

http://www.provencevancouver.com/

The Urban Tea Merchant, Downtown and West Vancouver

Sweetheart Afternoon Tea February 11th through 14th

11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm $48 per person (includes a special $29.95 tea gift)

And served daily - Downtown & West Vancouver

Petit Afternoon Tea ($25), Westcoast Afternoon Tea ($29) and Signature Afternoon Tea ($48)

Salon de Thé hours:

Downtown - Mon, Tues, Wed & Sat 10am-7pm, Thurs & Fri 10am-8pm, Sun & Hol 12pm-7pm

West Vancouver -Mon, Tues & Sat 9am-7pm, Wed, Thurs & Fri 9am– 9pm, Sun & Hol 11am-6pm

Downtown - 1070 West Georgia Street, Vancouver (Entrances also on Alberni Street) 604-692-0071

West Vancouver - 825 Main Street, Park Royal Village 604-926-3392

www.urbantea.com

Victoria Tea Festival

February 12th and 13th, 2011

Saturday 12-5pm and Sunday 11am-4pm

Crystal Garden (713 Douglas Street)

http://www.victoriateafestival.com/

Tea Sommelier Program at Vancouver Community College

VCC Tea Sommelier Program

Directly from the West Seattle Junction Press Release:

THE WEST SEATTLE JUNCTION IS ALL ABOUT SEDUCTIVE TREATS THIS VALENTINE’S DAY

FIND THE PATH TO YOUR BELOVED’S HEART WITH DELICIOUS AND ROMANTIC GOODIES FROM THESE JUNCTION BUSINESSES

There is no lack of love from West Seattle Junction restaurants and specialty food shops this Valentine’s Day. Whether your beloved likes sinfully chocolate treats or oysters and champagne, a trip to The Junction is just the thing to set Cupid’s arrow free. And remember: parking is always free in The Junction!

Shoofly Pie Company

Shoofly Pie Co. believes in all butter crusts and homemade goodness. Seattleites must agree since this little pie company received Seattle magazine’s Best Restaurants of 2010 Reader Choice Award. All February long enjoy:

Bleeding Heart Cherry Pie
Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Tart

Bakery Nouveau

Another award winner, Bakery Nouveau tempts visitors everyday with their French-inspired pastries, breads, sandwiches and pizza.

Macaron for Two: A macaron large enough to share filled with chocolate mousse and topped with fresh fruit
St. Valentine: St. Honoré style dessert pairing the flavors of raspberry and vanilla
Valentine Chocolate Tart: Rich 60% chocolate ganache topped with a chocolate glaze and pink macaron hearts

Coffee to a Tea

Home to Sugar Rush Baking Company, this neighborhood kid-friendly coffee shop serves up tasty cupcakes, soups and sandwiches.

Heart Cakes for Two in Red Velvet, Ganache and Coconut
Imposter! Cupcakes: marshmallow filled chocolate cake dipped in ganache
Assorted cupcakes topped with heart-shaped brownies
Sugar cookies

Cupcake Royale

Delicious cupcakes and stellar coffee at the heart of the West Seattle Junction.

Deathcakes (from 1/28-2/14 only): Theo Chocolate decadence, Stumptown espresso ganache, chocolate cake Royale
Special cupcake for February: Red Hot, chocolate cake Royale with a cinnamon peppery bite and flower-top frosting

Fresh Bistro

Innovative Pacific Northwest Cuisine in a welcoming environment.

From Friday, February 11 through Monday, February 14, Fresh Bistro is offering “Embracing Culinary Aphrodisiacs,” a prixe fix Valentine’s Day Dinner for Two.

Menu Highlights:

Duo of Oysters & Sparkling Wines
Fig and Pig Salad with Frisee, Arugula and Watercress with Orange Pistachio Brittle, Braised Pork Belly and Balsamic Vinny
Deconstructed Beef Wellington with Truffles, Duxelles Puff Pastry, Foraged Mushrooms, Red Wine Peppercorn Demi and Pan Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras
Chocolate Truffle Trio: Dark Chocolate Chili Pepper, Milk Chocolate Banana, White Chocolate Framboise served with Warm Almond Milk

Tuscan Tea Room

This lovely and ornately appointed Junction newcomer offers lunch and afternoon tea, as well as house-blended loose leaf tea for sale. This Valentine’s Day weekend (February 12, 13 and 14), the Tuscan Tea Room will be offering:

Sweetheart Tea for little your sweetheart ages 13 and under featuring Heart Shaped Finger Sandwiches and Cookies and a special “milk flight” featuring chocolate, strawberry and peach milk.
Chocolate Valentine Tea with chocolate bacon Bruschetta, Espresso Crushed Chocolate NY Strip and a Salad Boat with Cranberry, Gorgonzola, Almonds and Cocoa Nibs.

Directly from the Vancouver Symphony Press Release:

Natalie MacMaster Live with the VSO

Vancouver, BC - Sensational Cape Breton fiddler Natalie MacMaster will perform with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra on Wednesday, May 11th, 8pm at the Orpheum Theatre. Assistant Conductor Pierre Simard will lead the VSO. Tickets go on-sale Monday, January 31st at 10am online at www.vancouversymphony.ca and the VSO Customer Service phone line at 604.876.3434.

Bringing her passion for the music and culture of Cape Breton to Vancouver, Natalie MacMaster’s passionate, electrifying performances never fail to thrill audiences wherever she goes. She debuted her fiddling prowess at the age of nine-and-a-half years at a concert in Glendale, Cape Breton – then delivered her first album, Four On The Floor, at the age of 16, and has been enchanting audiences ever since.

Ms. MacMaster’s signature sound has resonated with world audiences through 10 albums, multiple gold sales figures; numerous Juno and East Coast Music Awards; two honorary degrees and an honorary doctorate; the Order Of Canada – and a reputation as one of Canada’s most captivating performers.

This exciting performance with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra will feature many traditional reels, jigs and strathspreys, conveying the flavor of Cape Breton-style Celtic fiddling in Ms. MacMaster’s own unique way – with some highland step-dancing thrown in for good measure! In addition, the performance will feature modern takes on traditional tunes with orchestral arrangements by Scott MacMillan.

CONCERT INFO

Specials: Natalie MacMaster

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11, 8 PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE

Pierre Simard conductor

Natalie MacMaster

Sensational Cape Breton fiddler Natalie MacMaster performs live with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra! A multiple Juno-award winning artist, Natalie MacMaster’s passionate, electrifying performances never fail to thrill audiences wherever she goes!

Visit Natalie MacMaster at www.nataliemacmaster.com

TICKET INFORMATION:

Tickets: $45- $65 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434

The VSO presents Pianist Nareh Arghamanyan

Vancouver, BC – Pianist Nareh Arghamanyan joins the VSO for exhilarating evening of Liszt’s Totentanz and Piano Concerto No. 2 on Saturday, February 5th, 8pm at the Orpheum, Sunday, February 6th, 2pm at the Orpheum, and Monday, February 7th, 8pm at the Bell Performing Arts Centre. The outstanding young American conductor James Gaffigan will lead the VSO.

Armenian pianist Nareh Arghamanyan, still in her early twenties, belongs to the promising generation of today’s fine pianists. Born in 1989 in Armenia, Ms. Arghamanyan began her piano studies at the age of five. In 2004 she was the youngest student to be admitted to the University for Music and Performing Arts Vienna, where she studied with Heinz Medjimorec.

Hailed for the natural ease of his conducting and the compelling insight of his musicianship, James Gaffigan continues to attract international attention and is considered by many to be the most outstanding young American conductor working today. In January 2010, he was appointed Chief Conductor of the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra and Principal Guest Conductor of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra. Both positions begin in summer 2011.

In this concerto, the VSO celebrates the two-hundredth anniversary of Franz Liszt’s birth with two of his most famous works. His music is always exhilarating, and none more so than his Totentanz and Piano Concerto No. 2. Totentanz, which means Dance of Death, is an exciting, virtuosic piece. Nearly Gothic in its sound and mood that it creates, the piece is imbued with spirituality and a sense of the supernatural.  Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 2 is an extraordinary example of a symphonic poem with the solo instrument as the focal voice or character. Presented in one continuous movement, contrasting tempos and tonalities define each section within the brilliant work.

Wagner’s Lohengrin: Prelude to Act I and Strauss’ Don Juan and Salome’s Dance completes this exceptional, erotic and exotic concert.

CONCERT INFO

Musically Speaking

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 8 PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE

James Gaffigan conductor

Nareh Arghamanyan piano

strauss            Don Juan

Liszt              Piano Concerto No. 2

wagner             Lohengrin: Prelude to Act I

Liszt              Totentanz

strauss            Salome’s Dance

Liszt’s music is always exhilarating, and none more so than his Totentanz and Piano Concerto No. 2—performed by formidable young Armenian pianist Nareh Arghamanyan. The powerful music of Wagner and Richard Strauss completes this exceptional concert.

Visit James Gaffigan at www.jamesgaffigan.com

Visit Nareh Arghamanyan at www.arghamanyan.com

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets: $21.50 - $59 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434

Video Screen Sponsor: TELUS

Special Video Screen Presentations Created and Produced by: Columbia Academy

Radio Sponsor: CHQM-FM

Symphony Sundays

SUNDAY, February 6, 2 PM, orpheum theatre

James Gaffigan conductor

Nareh Arghamanyan piano

strauss            Don Juan

Liszt              Piano Concerto No. 2

wagner             Lohengrin: Prelude to Act I

Liszt              Totentanz

strauss            Salome’s Dance

Liszt’s music is always exhilarating, and none more so than his Totentanz and Piano Concerto No. 2—performed by formidable young Armenian pianist Nareh Arghamanyan. The powerful music of Wagner and Richard Strauss completes this exceptional concert.

Visit James Gaffigan at www.jamesgaffigan.com

Visit Nareh Arghamanyan at www.arghamanyan.com

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets: $21.50 - $59 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434

Surrey Nights

MONDAY, February 7, 8 pm, Bell performing arts centre

James Gaffigan conductor

Nareh Arghamanyan piano

strauss               Don Juan

Liszt                 Piano Concerto No. 2

wagner                Lohengrin: Prelude to Act I

Liszt                 Totentanz

strauss               Salome’s Dance

Liszt’s music is always exhilarating, and none more so than his Totentanz and Piano Concerto No. 2—performed by formidable young Armenian pianist Nareh Arghamanyan. The powerful music of Wagner and Richard Strauss completes this exceptional concert.

Visit James Gaffigan at www.jamesgaffigan.com

Visit Nareh Arghamanyan at www.arghamanyan.com

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets: $39 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434

The VSO’s Surrey Nights Series has been endowed by a generous gift from Werner and Helga Höing

Directly from the Donnelly Group Press Release:

Fresh Menus for a New Year Donnelly Group Public Houses highlight local, artisanal food

Vancouver, BC (January 26, 2011) – Donnelly Group Public Houses are pleased to unveil new menus that showcase a fresh take on the quality drinks and well-executed pub fare that its establishments are known for. Along with a more extensive selection of craft beer and small-batch liquors, Donnelly’s public houses have introduced new artisanal sandwiches, inventive plating and healthier options.

Executive Chef Michael Knowlson and his talented kitchen brigade are focused on serving local, sustainable food; meat, seafood and produce are fresh, seasonal and — wherever possible — organic. In keeping with Donnelly’s fresh approach to pub food, all of the company’s locations are Ocean Wise and Green Table certified.

Chef Knowlson sources bread from Mix Bakery in Point Grey Village and cheese from Moonstruck on Salt Spring Island; burgers and artisanal sandwiches — think carved roast beef or pressed hot pastrami — are wrapped in deli-style paper and served on a locally made maple board from Red Bean company. While introducing new menu items such as Thai mussels, chili squid, Maui dry ribs and truffle fries, the menu will continue to feature favourites such as the Modern Pub Burger with crispy pancetta and BC Farmstead cheddar in a brioche bun. The company proudly serves JJ Bean coffee, which is complimentary with weekend brunch.

The pub group’s new bar program is focused on providing more Canadian craft beer on draught, including Victoria-made Hop Circle IPA and Phoenix Gold Lager — both from Phillips Brewing Company — and Driftwood Farmhand Ale, a Saison-style beer which won gold at the 2010 Canadian Brewing Awards. The bar program showcases interesting worldly brands and new bottles from North American breweries, including Unibroue in Chambly, Québec and Steam Whistle Brewing in Toronto, with a fresh cocktail list every season offering a selection of classic cocktails and contemporary creations. For more information please visit: www.donnellygroup.ca

Directly from the Nando’s Press Release:

NANDO’S FLAME-GRILLED CHICKEN RESTAURANTS BRINGS PERI-PERI SPIRIT TO SUPER BOWL AND OSCAR PARTIES

Canadian Restaurant Group Launches Well “Seasoned” Catering Menu for all Seasons!

Richmond, B.C. (January 26th, 2011) – Nando’s Flame-Grilled Chicken Restaurants has announced the launch of its catering service for gatherings of almost all sizes, now enabling the Nando’s ex-PERi-ence to come to your home or office.

“We know people want to enjoy our flame-grilled chicken in different settings, and we also know that people often want to order large quantities, so we came up with a Catering Menu that answers those demands. Our guests can now enjoy our food in the comfort of their home while watching the game with friends, and they can take all the credit too. We’re responding to a huge demand from meeting and party planners who want to bring the excitement and fun of our menu and brand to their events,” explained Dan Isserow, Nando’s Flame-Grilled Chicken’s CEO. “Nando’s Catering provides a memorable and efficient solution that’s easy to order and manage, and it’s not hard on the wallet either.”

Nando’s Catering Menu can be found online at www.nandoscanada.com under the Menu section of the website. All restaurant locations are under the Restaurant Locator section, and catering orders can be delivered – so simply order that Super Bowl feast from your closest restaurant, and Nando’s will take care of the rest. If you’re lucky, it could even be free…look for Nando’s Catering Contest information on the Homepage!

Directly from the Commune Cafe Press Release:

Vancouver, BC – When Commune Cafe opened last summer, it quickly became a neighbourhood favourite and their all-day menu received rave reviews.

Commune Cafe is now expanding its offering with a new list of dinner features that are available daily after 5 pm. The new dinner menu keeps things casual, homey and affordable, with starters like roast winter pumpkin soup ($6) house-cured gravlax ($8) and a warm chicken waldorf salad ($8); and mains like braised beef cheeks with mashed potatoes, winter vegetables and red wine jus ($15); seared salmon with smoked bacon and garden pea risotto ($14); and confit pork belly with braised cabbage, roast potatoes and apple sauce ($13). Commune Cafe’s motto is “those who eat together, stay together” and the new dinner menu also includes a selection of sharable plates like a daily cheese & butcher board ($12),spinach dip ($7) and Sangak flatbread with bacon and caramelized onion ($10).

With everything on the dinner menu priced at $15 or less, and a smart BC wine list that starts at $6/glass, Commune Cafe is offering up one of the best dinner values in the city and giving downtown dwellers a go-to spot for a great dinner at a great price.

For the full dinner menu and more information, please visit www.communecafe.ca.

Directly from the Sun Peaks Resort Press Release:

Sun Peaks, BC (January 25, 2011) – The 13th Annual Winter Festival of Wine at Sun Peaks Resort has been declared a huge success after six events were sold out. In addition, four other events were almost at capacity, with only space for one or two more people.

The sold out events took place over the second half of the festival, and included the signature event of the week, the Sun Peaks West Jet Progressive Tasting. Tickets for the Progressive became a hot commodity after selling out 5 days before the Friday evening event. Over 660 people enjoyed wine varietals from 24 Okanagan wineries that were set up in hotel lobbies throughout the alpine village.

The Medal Winners Tasting, Delta Winemasters’ Dinner, All You Need is Cheese & Wine, Wine Mixology & Small Bites, and Mixology to Music were also sold out this year.

New events added to the festival helped draw additional ticket sales for the event, with over 350 more event tickets sold this year over the 2010 festival. The Port & Cheese: After the Après Social was new this year and was almost a sell out event.

Mark your calendar! The next culinary extravaganza at Sun Peaks takes place July 15-17, 2011 during the 4th Annual Wine and Culture Festival. Sample wine from BC’s boutique wineries, taste seasonal treats from local chefs, enjoy melodic sounds from members of the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra and more! Details and ticket information coming soon!

Directly from the Blue Water Cafe Press Release:

Blue Water Cafe’s 7th Annual Unsung Heroes Festival February 1st – 28th, 2011

Vancouver, B.C. – Executive Chef Frank Pabst’s Unsung Heroes take pride of place at Vancouver’s multiple award winning Blue Water Cafe throughout the month of February.

Long a champion of our coastal fisheries, and protective of commercially endangered species, Chef Pabst created the annual Unsung Heroes festival seven years ago. His concept is simple: avoid species that are over-fished, or fished in ways that damage ocean beds or cause unnecessary by-catch, by introducing diners to new experiences and flavours using species found in abundance.

“During the winter – while halibut and salmon stocks replenish – it’s the ideal time to feature the full potential of species that are often overlooked,” Pabst said. “Our Unsung Heroes are not only plentiful, they’re delicious and nutritional.”

Again this year, 10 per cent of proceeds will be donated to the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise sustainable seafood program, of which Blue Water Cafe is a founding member.

MENU

Jellyfish
marinated with sesame oil and togarashi, daikon and cucumber salad  9.50

Periwinkles
sea snails cooked in a white wine vegetable bouillon
served chilled in their shells with saffron aioli  9.50

Herring
pickled in apple schnapps, vegetable relish, smoked potato sponge  9.50

Herring Roe
kombu seaweed, bonito flakes, dashi, soy  10.50

Seaweed
kaiso salad with avocado, cucumber, sesame, ponzu and rice bran oil  7.50

Anchovy
white anchovies marinated with garlic and parsley, parmesan custard
fennel and romaine hearts in organic olive oil and lemon vinegar  9.50

Geoduck
mirugai ubuki sashimi with tama miso sauce  15.50

Sea Cucumber
nori spring roll with sea cucumber, oysters, snow peas, shiitake mushrooms, bean sprouts
pea shoot salad with hoisin dressing  10.50

Mackerel
eggplant baba ghanoush with nasturtium and golden raisins
preserved beech mushrooms, long pepper balsamic reduction  9.50

Octopus
grilled with chilean merken spice, garlic confit, chickpeas, charred red peppers  11.50

Sardine
in a blanket with pine nut gremolata, cardoon, black olives, preserved grapefruit
citrus chili gastrique  9.50

Red Sea Urchin + Squid
fresh squid ink pasta, crispy market squid, quail egg, sea urchin cream  12.50

Directly from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts Newsletter:

Plugged-In Granville Island Tour & Lunch

In alliance with Tourism Vancouver and their annual Dine Out Vancouver promotion we’re offering our ‘Plugged-In’ Market Tours followed by lunch.  See what’s fresh and seasonal, meet our local market personalities and learn about Granville Island’s colourful history.  After you’ve worked up an appetite on your market excursion settle in at Bistro 101 for a three-course dine-out menu lunch.  The 1.5 hour Chef-led tour and three-course lunch is only $48 per person.

A Taste of Valentine’s

Cupid’s in the kitchen this Valentine’s Day!  Treat your sweetie to a three-course lunch or dinner with optional add-ons and wine pairings.  Your choice of main course includes Rack of Lamb, Marinated Sable Fish (an Ocean Wise selection) or Half Cornish Game Hen.  At only $18 for Lunch and $24 for dinner, there will plenty of change left over for that extra large bouquet of flowers.

PICA Does Vancouver Playhouse Wine Festival

What do you get when you cross a handful of Vancouver’s top Chefs with some of the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival’s most exciting wines on a Sunday afternoon?   Every oenophiles favourite brunch jamboree!  PICA Executive Chef, Julian Bond, leads a team of Advanced culinary students who will prepare a perfect pairing with their selected wine at the Vintner’s Brunch.

Directly from the City of Toronto Press Release:

Winterlicious 2011 kicks off this week! Presented by American Express January 28 - February 10, 2011

Winterlicious has something for everyone - from foodies with a taste for history to those who want to experience the flavours of the world.  Many of Toronto’s best restaurants are currently taking reservations for the popular prix fixe dining promotion. Tickets are also on sale for 14 exceptional Culinary Events.

WINTERLICIOUS CULINARY EVENTS OFFER UP A TASTE OF HISTORY
For foodies with a passion for the past, this year’s Winterlicious culinary events offer three unique experiences at historic sites across the city that celebrate food and drink from the 1700s until today.

Fort York Food Fight! – Chef Competition
Fort York National Historic Site, 250 Fort York Blvd.
Enjoy refreshments from the late 18th and early 19th centuries and a chef competition.
Date: January 29, 1 – 6 pm.

Artisanal Brewers at Todmorden: A Tutored Tasting
Papermill Gallery at Todmorden Mills Heritage Site, 67 Pottery Rd.
At the site of the original brewery built in 1821, participants will enjoy an evening of sampling seasonal artisanal brews with both traditional 19th century and contemporary food pairings.
Date: February 5, 7 – 9:30

AROUND THE WORLD WITH WINTERLICIOUS
This year’s culinary events offer a range of flavours from around the globe; experience the culture and cuisine of China, India and Spain.

A Passion for Dance, Opera and Dining
Embrujo Flamenco Tapas Restaurant, 97 Danforth Ave.
The cuisine of Spain combined with performances and sounds of the opera Carmen.
Dates: January 30 – February 1, 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Chinese New Year’s Eve Celebration
Spice Route, 499 King St. W.
This event features a special prix fixe dinner incorporating traditional Chinese New Year’s Eve fare and an exciting performance by a troupe of dragon dancers.
Date: February 2, 7 pm & 9 pm seatings

Feast of the Maharaja
FRANK @ the Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas St. W.
Join Executive Chef Anne Yarymowich of FRANK @ the AGO for an Indian-inspired experience of food, music and a guided tour of the AGO’s newest exhibition.

Date: February 9, 6 – 10 pm

Directly from the Mink Chocolates Press Release:

MINK CHOCOLATES HAND-CRAFTED IN VANCOUVER, COVETED WORLDWIDE

Holt Renfrew creates Mink Chocolates Valentine’s POP UP store February 5th through 14th

Vancouver, BC – This Valentines, Mink Chocolates, a line of supremely decadent, ultra luxurious high percentage cocoa chocolate bars and bonbons, can be found at Holt Renfrew in a Valentine’s “Pop Up” store.

Located on the upper level of Holt Renfrew, directly in front of Prada, Mink Chocolates will showcase their extensive line of hand filled ganache chocolate bars, including the seasonal Romeo & Juliet chocolate bar.  Gift boxes for Valentine’s Day include the “Oh, Baby!” romance gift box of six chocolate bars; nine or sixteen piece Artist Series bonbon boxes, and an assortment of small and large hearts with bonbons inside, packaged and ribboned in clear boxes. Hand printed Valentine’s Day greeting cards, made especially for Mink Chocolates by truthandbeauty.ca will also be available.

The Vancouver based line of chocolates are made in small batches, by hand, with nothing added to extend shelf life and this Valentines, for the first time, these highly celebrated and unique flavours will be available at Holt Renfrew. Holt Renfrew is known for offering fresh, exclusive surprise selections of products in their pop up stores, and Mink Chocolates was delighted to get the exclusive invitation.

Mink Chocolates pop-up shop at Holt Renfrew

Upper level (in front of Prada) Pacific Center, Vancouver

Available:  Saturday Feb 5th through Valentine’s Day, February 14th

Hours: Mon- Tues 10am - 7pm/Wed - Fri 10am – 9pm/ Sat 1pm – 7pm/ Sun 11am – 7pm

Mink Chocolates are also available in their Mink retail cafés in downtown Vancouver, The Shops at Morgan Crossing, South Surrey, BC or on line at http://www.minkchocolates.com/

Directly from the Rosewood Hotel Georgia Press Release:

Vancouver’s Rosewood Hotel Georgia Announces Legendary Opening Date, May 7th 2011

Vancouver, BC (January 24, 2011) - In honour of its vibrant history deeply intertwined with that of Vancouver itself, Rosewood Hotel Georgia will officially open its doors on Saturday May 7th 2011, exactly 84 years to the day that the hotel first opened its doors in 1927.

“We are delighted to introduce the new Rosewood Hotel Georgia to Vancouver and hope to return the property to its iconic standing as the social hub of the city,” said Managing Director Steve Halliday. “In keeping with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ operating philosophy of enhancing experiences by reflecting local culture and history, we have worked with talented craftsmen to recreate this magnificent landmark and restore it to its glory days.”

Originally opened in the decadent 1920’s, the hotel came to be known as Vancouver’s most elegant retreat, attracting Royalty and Hollywood stars, with musical roots including legendary guests such as Elvis Presley, Ginger Rogers, Frank Sinatra and the Rolling Stones. With this irreplaceable history the hotel will be revived to its glory days with the help of interior design team at Toronto-based Munge Leung who took the hotel’s historic glamour and elegance as the inspiration for this transformation, keeping many of the original design features, including the ornate 1920’s lobby clock while restoring the cornices and other original features around the reception, ballroom and public areas.

On top of its original grandeur Rosewood Hotel Georgia will reach new heights with the extensive amenities and impeccable service that Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is famous for. These amenities include nearly 10,000 square feet of deluxe banquet and meeting facilities, 24-hour in-room dining, Sense, A Rosewood Spa®, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a 54’ indoor salt water lap pool that reflects shimmering movement and light over a dramatic porte-cochère, designed to create a real sense of arrival.

The new property features 155 rooms and suites that will be the height of sophistication against the remarkable backdrop of the restored hotel. Decorated using a palette of light blues, ivory and chocolate with the finest furnishings and spa-inspired bathrooms these accommodations will allow guests to embrace the significant elegance present throughout the hotel. Rosewood Hotel Georgia will also offer two exceptional Penthouse Suites, the Lord Stanley Suite and the hotel’s signature Rosewood Suite, both featuring a private rooftop terrace complete with stunning city skyline views, outdoor hot tub and fireplace.

With a view to resurrecting its iconic standing as the social hub of the city, Rosewood Hotel Georgia offers a number of dynamic public spaces for dining, entertaining and nightlife. Operated by one of Canada’s top chefs, David Hawksworth, the ‘Hawksworth’ Restaurant will captivate guests with culinary delights and Contemporary Canadian Cuisine that reflects regional, seasonal ingredients with a uniquely Vancouver-Asian twist. Set over 2,800sqft of floor space ‘Hawksworth’ also includes a seated bar and lounge area plus a first floor private dining room, overlooking the Art Gallery.

Talented Head Chef Ned Bell will oversee additional on premise dining including nearly 10,000 sq feet of event space that has been designed to suit a range of requirements, from boardroom power lunches to elaborate galas for up to 400 guests. The centre piece is the lovingly restored Spanish Ballroom featuring hand crafted cornice, stained glass windows and its original minstrel gallery. ‘Prohibition’, Rosewood Hotel Georgia’s underground vaulted cocktail lounge is built on the rich history of the hotel and will feature top musical entertainment in an intimate, sophisticated setting, while ‘1927’, he hotel’s handsome lobby bar and ‘Reflections’ a picturesque outdoor patio on the fourth floor offer alternative venues to dine and entertain.

Situated in the heart of the city at Georgia and Howe streets, Rosewood Hotel Georgia’s unique ambiance and style will join Rosewood Hotels and Resorts’ distinctive collection of luxury properties throughout the world including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas and Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort in Los Cabos, Mexico. The Rosewood Hotel Georgia joins King Pacific Lodge, A Rosewood Resort in British Columbia as Rosewood’s second Canadian property. Rosewood Hotel Georgia opens its doors on Saturday May 7th 2011, exactly 84 years later to the day of its original opening date. The lobby clock stopped at 11.07am and will start again at 11.08am when the new Rosewood Hotel Georgia will welcome its very first guests.

For more information and opening rates visit: www.rosewoodhotels.com

Directly from the BC Hospitality Foundation Press Release:

New “Trends 2011” breakfast benefits British Columbia Hospitality Foundation

VANCOUVER – British Columbia’s hospitality industry will get some valuable insights into personal and business health at a special Trends 2011 Breakfast being held on Monday, Jan. 31 at 8 a.m. at the Vancouver Convention Centre East – Parkview Terrace.  The event is part of the BC Foodservice Expo taking place Jan. 30 and 31, and benefits the BC Hospitality Foundation.

The two-hour event will include a delicious, healthy breakfast, networking opportunities, and insights into two key elements for business success ­– market intelligence and physical wellness – by two guest speakers: Vancouver’s own Dr. Art Hister, a well-known author and health reporter on TV and radio; and Robert Carter of the NPD Group, a leading market research company with unique insights into consumer preferences and dining behaviours.

Tickets for the Trends 2011 Breakfast are $69 (includes admission to the BC Foodservice Expo) or $49 for CRFA members. Tickets can be ordered online at www.bcfoodexpo.ca or by calling the show hotline at 1-866-751-3833. Seating is limited.

Attendees will be entered to win a $5,000 consumer trend report customized for their business by the NPD Group, as well as several other prizes.

“The Trends 2011 breakfast is yet another reason that hospitality owners, operators and executives won’t want to miss the BC Foodservice Expo. Not only will they come away with terrific insights into personal and business success, they will be contributing to a very worthy cause in the BC Hospitality Foundation,” says Garth Whyte, President and CEO of the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA) which owns and operates the BC Foodservice Expo.

“The BC Hospitality Foundation is delighted to be the beneficiary of the Trends 2011 Breakfast. In addition to receiving valuable funding to assist the beneficiaries of the Foundation, this event provides us with the opportunity to let people in the hospitality community know that there is a Foundation specifically looking after hospitality workers,” said Alan Sacks, BC Hospitality Foundation Business Development Manager.

The BC Hospitality Foundation is primarily set up to help those in any facet of the hospitality industry who are facing major financial hardship due to medical circumstances.  The foundation also funds scholarships for the next generation of hospitality industry leaders.

Monday, January 31, 2011

8:00 – 10:00am

Vancouver Convention Centre East – Parkview Terrace

Tickets $69

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a Dine Out Vancouver recipe:

Caramelized Banana and coconut tart with Maker’s Mark ice cream from Hidden Tasting Lounge.

Click here to view the Dine Out Vancouver restaurant list.

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature article:

Food Vancouver Select Guide: Interview with Celebrity Nutritionist Maria Thomas

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a Dine Out Vancouver recipe:

Chicken and Chorizo Salad from Sanafir Restaurant.

Click here to view the Dine Out Vancouver restaurant list.

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.